Bangladesh Women's cricket team has left out two senior players, Salma Khatun and Rumana Ahmed, from their squad for the upcoming tour of Sri Lanka. While the decision might come as a surprise to many, it is important to understand the reasoning behind it. 

According to Women’s selector Manjurul Islam, the decision to rest Salma and Rumana was made keeping in mind the team’s busy schedule this year, which includes a lot of cricket at home and abroad. The weather and conditions in Sri Lanka are also expected to be a challenge, which is why the team has taken some emerging cricketers who did well in the Under-19 World Cup recently.

It is noteworthy that Bangladesh will be experiencing a new phenomenon in ODIs as Salma and Rumana won’t be part of the team, albeit they were absent in a Women’s T20 World Cup match earlier this year. The two players have a combined 274 caps in international cricket, which highlights their importance to the team. However, the decision to rest these two senior players could prove to be a masterstroke in the long run. By giving opportunities to some emerging cricketers, the team management is ensuring that the bench strength is strengthened, which will be crucial in the years to come.

The Sri Lanka tour comprises three ODIs and as many T20Is, which are part of the Women’s Championship. This will be the first limited-overs bilateral series between the two teams, and both will be looking to collect as many points as possible. Currently, Sri Lanka occupies the eighth spot after six matches, while Bangladesh is seventh after three matches in the Women’s Championship points table. In June of last year, Sri Lanka emerged victorious over Pakistan, while Bangladesh secured points from two matches that were abandoned during their tour of New Zealand in December.

For Bangladesh, the absence of Salma and Rumana will be felt, but it will also provide an opportunity for some emerging cricketers to step up and prove their worth. Nigar Sultana Joty will lead the team, while Fargana Hoque Pinky and Shamima Sultana will be expected to provide the bulk of the runs. Jahanara Alam will lead the bowling attack, which also includes Sanjida Akther Maghla, Sobhana Mostary, and Lata Mondal. The team also has some promising all-rounders in Fahima Khatun, Nahida Akter, and Ritu Moni, who can contribute with both bat and ball.

In conclusion, while the absence of senior players Salma Khatun and Rumana Ahmed might be felt in the upcoming Sri Lanka tour, the decision to rest them could prove to be a wise move in the long run. This presents an opportunity for emerging cricketers to showcase their talents and strengthens the team’s bench strength. With a busy schedule this year, including cricket at home and abroad, it is crucial for the team to have a strong pool of players to choose from. This also reflects the progress of Bangladesh women’s cricket and its positive direction towards future success.